8 Days Trailblazers Triumph Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Hiking Expedition
Embark on a journey like no other as you traverse the awe-inspiring Northern Circuit Route of Mount Kilimanjaro. This 8-day hiking adventure promises not only a physical challenge but an immersive experience through diverse landscapes, changing temperatures, and the sheer natural beauty that surrounds Africa's highest peak. From Kilimanjaro Airport to Uhuru Peak and back to Moshi/Arusha, each day unfolds a new chapter in your triumph, surrounded by the grandeur of this iconic mountain.
Tour highlights
- Arrival Day : Kilimanjaro Airport Moshi/Arusha
- Day 1 : Moshi to Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
- Day 2 : Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
- Day 3 : Shira 1 Camp to Lava Tower to Moir Hut
- Day 4 : Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
- Day 5 : Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
- Day 6 : Third Cave to School Hut
- Day 7 : School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
- Day 8 : Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi to Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
Your journey kicks off as you leave Moshi and head to Londorossi Gate, the starting point of the Northern Circuit Route. The trail takes you through lush rainforests, teeming with wildlife. The day's trek covers approximately 8 km, lasting around 4-6 hours, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
Destination: Londorossi Gate To Lemosho Gate To Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp
Accommodation: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp
Venturing further into the Shira Plateau, you will witness a dramatic change in landscape. The trek covers about 14 km, lasting 6-8 hours, with temperatures dropping to 15°C to 25°C. Shira 1 Camp, situated at 3,505 meters above sea level, offers stunning panoramic views.
Destination: Big Tree (Mti Mkubwa) Camp To Shira 1 Camp
Accommodation: Shira 1 Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Lava Tower to Moir Hut
Today's journey includes a challenging ascent to Lava Tower at 4,640 meters. Covering 12 km in 5-7 hours, you will experience a drop in temperature to 10°C to 20°C. Moir Hut, nestled in the high alpine desert, provides a unique overnight experience.
Destination: Shira 1 Camp To Moir Hut Camp
Accommodation: Moir Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 4: Moir Hut to Buffalo Camp
Hiking through the moorland and heather zones, you will cover approximately 10 km in 5-7 hours, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Buffalo Camp, situated at 4,020 meters, allows you to acclimatize while surrounded by the striking scenery.
Destination: Moir Hut Camp To Buffalo Camp
Accommodation: Buffalo Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 5: Buffalo Camp to Third Cave
As you traverse the Barranco Valley, the trek covers around 12 km in 6-8 hours, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C. Third Cave, at 3,870 meters, offers a comfortable resting place amid the alpine desert.
Destination: Third Cave Camp To School Hut Camp
Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: Third Cave to School Hut
Approaching the summit, you will trek approximately 15 km in 7-9 hours, with temperatures dropping to -5°C to 5°C. School Hut, located at 4,800 meters, is the last stop before the final push to Uhuru Peak.
Destination: Third Cave Camp To School Hut Camp
Accommodation: School Hut Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 7: School Hut to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
The culmination of your journey awaits as you ascend to Uhuru Peak, covering 20 km in 10-14 hours. Endure temperatures from -10°C to -5°C as you bask in the glory of reaching the summit. Descend to Mweka Camp at 3,100 meters for a well-deserved rest.
Destination: School Hut Camp To Uhuru peak To Mweka camp
Accommodation: Mweka Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate Back to Moshi/Arusha
Your descent continues through lush rainforests, covering approximately 10 km in 3-5 hours. Temperatures rise to a comfortable 10°C to 20°C as you reach Mweka Gate, signaling the end of your epic adventure. Return to Moshi/Arusha with a profound sense of accomplishment.
Destination: Mweka Camp To Mweka Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking water
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rescue fee
- A professional driver/guide
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
- All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
- Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
Price Excludes
- Bath towels
- International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips: tipping guideline
- Personal items
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Frequently Asked Questions
• The Northern Circuit Route is considered challenging, requiring good physical fitness and mental preparation due to its extended duration and high-altitude conditions.
• The best time is during the dry seasons, from January to March and June to October, to ensure clear skies and optimal hiking conditions.
• Our experienced guides closely monitor participants for any signs of altitude sickness, and acclimatization days are strategically incorporated into the itinerary.
• Accommodations range from comfortable lodges to tents, offering a mix of immersive camping experiences and cozy shelter stays.
• Participants should be in good health, and age restrictions may apply. Consult with our team to ensure suitability.
• The route provides opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and unique mountain flora.
• We adhere to Leave No Trace principles, ensuring responsible waste disposal throughout the trek.
• While solo trekkers are welcome, group bookings offer a shared experience and additional support during the journey.
• Our guides are trained in first aid, and emergency evacuation plans are in place. Safety is our top priority.
• Customizations are possible. Contact our team to discuss tailoring the itinerary to your preferences.
• Our cancellation policy is outlined in detail in the terms and conditions. Contact us for specific information.
Reviews for 8 Days Trailblazers Triumph Northern Circuit Route Kilimanjaro Hiking Expedition
By John Smith 
Visited: February 2019
Embarking on the Northern Circuit Route was a life-changing experience. The team's commitment to responsible tourism, coupled with breathtaking landscapes, made every step worth it. A journey etched in my memory forever
By Maria Rodriguez 
Visited: April 2019
I joined this expedition with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The guides' knowledge and respect for the environment impressed me. The diverse ecosystems and the camaraderie among fellow trekkers created an unforgettable adventure
By Benjamin Lee 
Visited: April 2019
Conquering Kilimanjaro via the Northern Circuit Route was a dream come true. The meticulous planning, from acclimatization stops to the final push to Uhuru Peak, showcased the professionalism of the team. A definite must for avid trekkers
By . Fatima Ahmed 
Visited: April 2019
As a solo traveler, the Northern Circuit Route provided both challenge and solace. The well-paced itinerary, combined with responsible trekking practices, allowed me to absorb the beauty of Kilimanjaro without compromising on safety
By Richard Thompson 
Visited: May 2019
From the rainforests to the alpine deserts, this journey was a symphony of nature. The guides' expertise and commitment to minimizing environmental impact resonated throughout the trek. An unparalleled adventure
By Isabella Rossi 
Visited: June 2019
The Northern Circuit Route exceeded all expectations. The careful consideration for acclimatization, coupled with the stunning landscapes, made the journey not just a climb but a holistic experience. Kudos to the team for a memorable adventure